Consumers Energy plans to close seven coal-fired plants in Michigan, US which have a combined power generation capacity of 1000MW, following more than 60 years of operation.

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The closure of the power plants, which are together called ‘Classic Seven’, comes as the company is shifting its focus towards clean energy generation.

The power plants will be closed by 15 April 2016 and they include J.R. Whiting 1, 2 and 3 in Luna Pier; B.C. Cobb 4 and 5 in Muskegon; J.C.Weadock 7 and 8 in Hampton Township.

Consumers Energy energy resources senior vice-president Dan Malone said: "These plants have a long track record of running safely, productively and efficiently.

"In fact, Whiting’s Unit 3 recently set a company record by operating continuously for 679 consecutive days, the sixth longest run for a US power plant."

The firm expects the closure of its seven of 12 coal-fired power plants to reduce its carbon footprint by 25%. It is also expected to reduce air emissions by 40%, and achieve a water use reduction of 40%.

Consumers Energy is urging Lansing policymakers to update Michigan’s energy law and ensure customers have affordable and sustainable power going forward.

The company is working to accommodate placement of interested employees at other Consumers Energy sites.

Malone added: "We purchased the Jackson Gas Plant at one-quarter the cost of a new plant to replace the power from the Classic Seven and continue to invest in wind and other renewable energy sources.

"This ensures Consumers Energy has the power necessary to serve its customers affordably and reliably, with cleaner sources of energy."


Image: Consumers Energy plans to close 1000MW of coal-fired power plants to reduce carbon footprint by 25%. Photo: courtesy of dan/ FreeDigitalPhotos.net.